Donald Scott first entered the plumbing industry in 1992. Now, Donald is retiring, leaving behind a 30-year legacy in the industry.
Donald Scott, managing director, Lecico South Africa.
Supplied by Lecico
30 years in the industry
“I first entered the industry back in 1992, with Libra Baths, when I was involved in starting Libra Spas. Thereafter, I moved across to the main company as a salesman. Over the next couple of years, I moved into a national sales manager position until 1998,” says Donald.
After being with Libra Baths for about six years, the company was sold and Donald was retrenched.
“Having built up a strong client base, I started my first company, Donald Scott Agencies, and one of the initial products I represented was Lecico Sanitaryware, starting in the Western Cape. In 2001, through an agreement with Lecico, and after the closure of their subsidiary in South Africa, I became their national agent and formed a new company – Bathroomware Sales. In 2011, Lecico took a majority share in Bathroomware Sales, and we changed the name back to Lecico South Africa.”
But starting Lecico South Africa, part of the international company, did not come without its challenges. “With the formation of Lecico SA, being part of an International Company, which is traded on the Cairo – and at one point, the London – Stock Exchanges came with its typical governance requirements which took some getting used to. We still have a local Board of Directors,” says Donald.
Reflecting on plumbing product and technology changes
When asked what changes stick out to him the most over the past 30 years, Donald says that toilets have seen the most changes. “Regarding ceramic toilets, water saving has always been a major driver, cistern sizes have reduced dramatically over the years, flushing styles have changed and continue to change with the advent of the tornado flush. Now, with the introduction of the smart toilet, it is no longer a simple toilet.”
Looking back on the last 30 years
When asked if he ever saw himself being part of the plumbing industry for this long, Donald simply responded “one never does.” But his contribution to the industry over the past 30 years has left an imprint that cannot be understated.
As for how he hopes his contributions to the industry will be remembered, Donald says “I believe my long-standing clients will always remember me for my professionalism, ethical trading style and for being trustworthy in what I say I will do.”
From Lecico South Africa
On behalf of the entire team, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Donald Scott for his outstanding leadership, unwavering commitment, and the legacy he leaves behind. Throughout his time with the business, Donald has done far more than lead the company. He has inspired people, challenged us to grow, and created opportunities for countless individuals to reach their potential.
The values, lessons and standards he has instilled will continue to guide us long into the future. While we bid farewell to Donald as managing director, his influence will remain woven into the fabric of our business and the people who have had the privilege of working alongside him. Thank you, Donald, for your vision, your mentorship, and the lasting impact you have made on all of us. We wish you every success and happiness in this next chapter.
